Informational Meeting in Boston - July 2009

Informational Meeting in Boston - July 2009

Information About the Event

Please join the ABA Death Penalty Representation Project for a special two-part event on July 16, 2009 to learn how you can represent a deathsentenced prisoner and manage the costs of representation in today’s uncertain economy. US District Court Judge Nancy Gertner will host our event at the John Joseph Moakley US Courthouse in Boston with co-sponsorship by the Boston and Massachusetts Bar Associations.

* Part I: Nuts and Bolts of Capital Representation 3 pm – 4 pm
Ever wondered what is involved in representing a Death Row inmate? Curious about whether you have the skills to handle a case, and how the experience will benefit you, your practice, and your firm? This interactive session will provide you with a brief introduction to the world of capital representation. You will learn basic information about training, timing, other members of your team, ethical issues, investigations, and working with your death-sentenced client. You will also learn about the different types of death penalty work that the Project has available for volunteers.

* Part II: Managing the Costs of Volunteer Death Penalty Work 4 pm – 5 pm
Volunteer law firms that successfully handle death penalty appeals bring an infusion of skills and financial resources to the case. Although this work remains some of the most rewarding pro bono work available, some law firms may be wary of the costs associated with handling a death penalty case. This session will provide important information about how firms can keep out-of-pocket expenses at a manageable level, offer significant training opportunities to firm colleagues, and provide meaningful legal services to death-sentenced prisoners who are without counsel. Join Boston area attorneys as they talk about their experiences as volunteer death penalty lawyers. We will have a frank and honest discussion with volunteers and Project staff about the costs of death penalty work and why your help is still so urgently needed for those on Death Row.

A complimentary reception following the program will provide additional time to ask questions of volunteer attorneys and staff members from the ABA Death Penalty Representation Project.